The Worst Deal, but Nicest Looking | 2024 Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Les Paul Custom Ebony Review

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📚Description: I was very excited to review the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul Custom and it is a really nice guitar... but it just doesn't pack the same amount of value as the other new entries into the series when it lacks the $500 custombuckers, but still sports the same price tag as the others with its 490r/498t set. I do enjoy the gloss finish, but sadly - it just makes it feel like any other epiphone. I hope they come out with a happy medium between the new VOS finish and full gloss.
The Worst Deal, but Nicest Looking | 2024 Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Les Paul Custom Ebony Review
0:00 - Intro
0:23 - Gloss Finish!
0:46 - Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Series
2:30 - Why this one isn't as good of a value
4:45 - Epiphone VS Gibson Les Paul Custom
5:20 - Case / Paperwork
6:18 - Workbench / Specs
10:57 - Clean Tones
12:16 - Dirty Tones
13:00 - Gibson Les Paul Custom Tribal Comparison Tones
14:44 - Final Thoughts
16:38 - Watch Next
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[@Trog]

Would love to see some Epi "Widow" Customs at this price! That'd be fun 🟢For Sale on My Website: www.troglysguitarshow.com 🔴Reverb: tidd.ly/4aFiyhC 🐕 Private Help Sessions: troglysguitarshow.com/help-appraisals/

[@SeanHensley-kq6pf]

To be honest I don't care which one has the more expensive pickups. I would switch them out with Seymour Duncans anyway. Custombuckers are way overpriced.

[@patrickgiles2700]

I honestly don’t understand the debate over the new pricing. Really? Have y’all looked at the 1000 series LTDs, or Pro Series Jackson’s? They’re all around $1,500 now! The new Epi gives you actual Gibson pickups just like the Gibson model, ebony, mother of pearl and a hard case for $1,299? I think it’s a reasonable price.

[@KellerFkinRyan]

true however those all have stainless frets which can save you hundreds down the line. I think it really depends on what youre willing to spend on. is maintenance a big factor? get the LTD. is the pickup a specific thing you need? go with epiphone. need both? sucks to be you, pay up $5000 or swap in Gibson pickups on an LTD

[@jkeating7906]

I think it’s hard to get over the perception of epiphone as a beginner/intermediate guitar. In my experience at least, ESPs are completely out of everyone’s price range so LTD is a good choice if you want that type of guitar, and many people play LTDs on stage without looking like an amateur. Jackson says Jackson on the headstock no matter what series it is, same with fender. But if you play an epiphone on stage people will think you’re an amateur. It’s a dumb and it shouldn’t matter but it does to a lot of people. I guess there would be uproar from Gibson owners if Gibson started putting their name on non USA-made guitars, though.

[@KellerFkinRyan]

@@jkeating7906 tbf fender does have the squier series, and even on the mexican fenders i’ve had some bad experiences. that said, american fender doesn’t seem to give a shit about the guitar unless it’s an ultra luxe

[@jkeating7906]

@@KellerFkinRyan yeah sure, but a Mexican fender is on the same level in terms of price and quality as a mid-range Epiphone these days, yet you still get to have “fender” on the headstock and look like a serious musician. Again, it’s all dumb but it makes a difference to a lot of people.

[@KellerFkinRyan]

@@jkeating7906 i’d honestly disagree, i think the high end epiphones are the shit. imho there’s no difference between one of these custom shop epiphones and a gibson other than nitro lacquer and a different word on the headstock. on the other hand, i think the mexican fenders are quite bad. it’s almost ironic that fender seems proud to put their name on those guitars yet gibson won’t put their name on these kick ass epis. as someone who works at an american guitar factory (won’t say which for job security lol) there really is no excuse for how much of a downgrade in craftsmanship there is going to a mexican fender. they’re all regular humans going to their full time job, and it’s inexcusable how many flaws come out of the mexican factory compared to corona.

[@dorianmorningstar7638]

You can criticize all you want these are fine guitars.. as the owner of both Gibson Les Pauls and The 1979 Adam Jones Epiphone Les Paul Custom theres nothing significant enough that I can find to definitively say that my Gibsons are 2K better than the Epiphone inspired by Gibson custom shop… criticism from this guy sounds a bit whiny and nit picky to say the least … Gibsons themselves make PLENTY of dud guitars so don’t be fooled into thinking that just because it’s a Gibson its better.. for example..this guitar is better that a Gibson Les Paul Studio in EVERY way.. it just is … and ANYONE can be a self proclaimed expert on guitars.. do your research people and stop taking peoples personal biases and opinions as gospel truths

[@pharmerdavid1432]

Well said, and supposedly if you flip the magnets on the 490/498 pickups it improves both of them, that way you have the AlNiCo-5 in the neck, and AlNiCo-2 in the bridge, which improves the tone in both - otherwise this is one of my least favorite Gibson humbucker sets. I also wish they used a satin finish on the neck, but I like the gloss finish on the body. Except for the gloss neck and pickups this is a great guitar, I'm going to be sanding the gloss off the neck and switching the magnets (haven't done it yet, but everybody that does swears by it)......cheers!

[@Elementalism]

I haven't played these custom epiphones yet. But I own a 2010 Epi Les Paul Standard and a 2021 Gibson 50s Les Paul Standard. The difference in the two is noticeable to me. I rarely play the Epiphone anymore. The feel, the sound of the Gibson is noticeably better. But like I said, maybe these new Epiphones have upped their game.

[@thepurgatorykids]

As an owner of both Epiphones & Gibsons, I agree with you that the Epiphones are great guitars now-- but if you're spending $1,000 on them, you are losing money because of the name on the headstock (whether it's fair or not, that's the market). Gibson, at least, holds better resale value. Maybe that'll change in the future, but it has certainly held true over the years to now.

[@fordhamdonnington2738]

Isn't it more than just the name on the headstock though? As these are manufactured in China.

[@thepurgatorykids]

@@fordhamdonnington2738 Maybe, but Chinese made Fenders hold better resale value than Squiers. These newer Epiphones are perhaps 90-95% the guitars that American made Gibsons are, in terms of quality and joy of playing, but unless the market changes over time, Gibsons are usually an investment while Epiphones rarely are.

[@Loycole69]

It's crazy to think that at one point, Gibson couldn't even get ebony fretboards on their custom shop LPs for a time...now they are putting them on their cheapest Epiphone LP customs.

[@leviathan_is_me]

It's crazy that the cheapest Epiphone is over $1000. Especially in today's environment.

[@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters]

@@leviathan_is_me It's crazy that fools are buying overpriced import guitars made by slave labor. If I'm going to buy a guitar built by slave labor it should be cheap.

[@leviathan_is_me]

@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters right.... slave labor. You DO know 99% of these imports are built in the same factory with the same materials, right? Cort, PRS, Epiphone, etc.. just because something is made in a country other than the U.S. doesn't mean it is slave labor.

[@fernandosilva6295]

@@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters "I don't want to support the multibillion dollar company exploiting chinese workers, I want to support the multibillion dollar company exploiting local workers"

[@777Lateralus]

It’s crazy someone would pay over $1000 for tiis

[@keithbolves278]

I actually just received mine today, and honestly I’m really impressed. I like it much more than I expected to. It looks awesome, it’s lightweight, it plays really well and the Gibson pickups are better than I expected. The sustain on mine is really good. Part of me was hoping I would not like it so I could return it and save the money. But I was so pleasantly surprised that it is now going to stay with me.

[@TheEvdavis7]

How are the frets? thinking about getting one have jumbo frets on it. Thes frets on the actual Gibson custom looks bigger/thicker that the fret on the Epiphone. What are your thoughts?

[@Myfingersstinklikefish]

From Sweetwater...Epiphone’s acclaimed ProBucker pickups The key ingredient to the Les Paul’s early success was the PAF humbucking pickup. The first of its kind to hit the mainstream, the Patent Applied For humbuckers defined the sound of a generation with their fat tone and clear response. With the price of vintage PAFs skyrocketing, Epiphone set out to create their own PAF-style pickup. Thus, the ProBucker humbucking pickup was born. Inspired by the original PAF sound, these pickups pump out full, overwound tones with incredible clarity. When you plug in, you’ll instantly recognize the signature Les Paul punch.

[@user-qn1tw4nk1e]

Absolutely these are highly recommended and acclaimed pickups it's amazing these so called experts don't know this but what do you want it's the Internet all walks of stupid are here

[@eertje01]

They really should have re-introduced the Orville brand name and put that on the expensive epiphone headstocks.

[@HANDBALLDIEHARD]

The best copies and Gibson realized that and took the line over back then.

[@joermnyc]

Needs a middle pickup for some Jimmy Page Black Beauty mods. 😂

[@matmetalhead6]

I mean, 1.3k USD is still very cheap compared to an actual Gibson, considering that a Standard is pretty much 3k at this point.

[@williamdesmarais4931]

That is a valid point, but when a 59 goes from $700 to $1,300 and the only real difference is burstbuckers vs custombuckers (which both have the same cost to manufacture) something is definitely going on.

[@martyshwaartz971]

There’s a LOT of really good single cuts in this price range though

[@tonedowne]

Yeah but you can get a second hand Gibson studio for that money and a new Tribute (if you can find one), which have the same pickups plus nitro finish. I can see the argument for the custom bucker loaded Epiphones with the thinner finish, but not this one.

[@bladeoflucatiel]

Gibsons costed 1k for studio/special models before the bankrupcy, I'll be damned the day I pay 1000 bucks for an epiphone.

[@ReubenGuitars]

The real issue is what a Gibson costs. Thats why they can try to justify these prices because if their "real" versions are daylight robbery, then they can justify charging more for the cheaper option. I dislike that mentality.

[@IJIIKY9192]

I got one in white. I've used it twice live and it sounded and played great. No regrets and I love the 498t as well. Would definitely buy again

[@michaelsakells169]

I got mine in alpine white last month from Sweetwater, and I've been playing it almost every day. I love it so much.

[@reverb508]

Congrats! Alpine White looks so nice on a Custom. Randy Rhoads fan?

[@michaelsakells169]

Yup, well any rocker who plays a Les Paul. I chose the custom in Alpine white because it pops out a lot more​ than the ebony version @reverb508

[@michaelsakells169]

​@@reverb508plus I wanted a custom shop les paul, but the gibson versions are too expensive, and I don't want mine to yellow too quickly

[@PicoDePaulo]

Did Sweetwater hook you up with a deal? I want one of these but the price is just a bit too much when I know I can get a MIJ Orville or Greco for around the same price

[@michaelsakells169]

Sadly no. This is technically my first purchase from Sweetwater. My coworkers recommended them since they set it up for me, and check the quality. ​@@PicoDePaulo

[@CountScotula]

I've wanted a Gibson LP Custom since the 90s. I'm just a hobbyist so I could never justify the price. I had tried some of the previous Epiphone LP Custom versions but they just didn't do it for me despite them being great guitars. When these came out I jumped on an Alpine White one (which does much better at hiding scratches and swirls). It's really fantastic guitar and absolutely scratches that itch for me. I don't see it as I got a worse deal than the other inspired by Gibson guitars. I see it as saving almost $5000 for the guitar I really wanted.

[@ashleymerritt9461]

I think people really need to chill on this price stuff, a Gibson LP custom is crazy money, the epis used to be way cheaper when they used cheap pickups, plastic inlays and multi piece necks. Nowadays they genuinely are built essentially like a Gibson but from overseas, the price is fair more or less. We gotta start to see em more like an esp ec1000 or something.

[@tonedowne]

I think it’s the resale value that freaks people out. Having Epiphone on the headstock immediately drops the value as soon as it leaves the shop. Having literally boatloads of these turning up all over the world, all identical, is going to keep the SH prices down, and there is so much competition from other brands at this price point and below. And a lot of people are salty that this used to be the entry price into Gibson with the Tribute range, and that’s been discontinued and replaced with these Epiphones with poly finishes. Having said that, I think the 355 is actually a good deal.

[@the_hippykiller22]

I would agree if the quality was on par with an EC1000, and it's not

[@csharp57]

@@tonedowneLegitimately argument for those thinking about selling in the future. I’m thinking about carrying it to every gig I can for the next 7-10 years, hopefully passing in on well broken in to be played for years to come

[@Les537]

They spent 20 years teaching us that epi were cheap starter guitars. The brand is DEAD to me. Why don't they just print gibson on the head in the same way fender makes mexi strats?

[@tonedowne]

@@Les537 Or bring back the Orville brand name, or do like PRS by adding something like SE onto the headstock. Maybe IC for Import Custom

[@TylerJohnstonGuitar]

I loved my Epiphone LP Custom when I had it. However, the pricetag on that one was 1,000 USD lower. I’d rather have something MIJ at this price point.

[@weedian710]

That would be awesome. I’d be a buyer for sure if they were MIJ.

[@johnsmith-oh2xo]

Yes I have a nice 1989 Greco EG59-70 made in the FujiGen factory and it is amazing.....

[@the_hippykiller22]

Any Edwards, Tokai, Greco etc would wipe the floor with that overpriced thing. This is a nice 500$ guitar.

[@thesleekgreek]

It’s true this is what I would say a ANYTHING Fujigen - like my Les paul blows all this epiphone and even most Gibson out the water

[@rocktorrocks]

Agreed! MIJ is way better value at this price point.

[@leviathan_is_me]

Every time I hear "premium like feature" I really hear "Charges hundreds for something they kinda trued to emulate..."

[@Crackshot729]

I'm sorry, what exactly is being emulated here? It's got a long neck tenon, it's got a one piece neck, Gibson pickups, mother of pearl inlays, etc. those are all specs, and I don't see anything being emulated. If your real beef is where it's made, just say so.

[@leviathan_is_me]

@Crackshot729 me? If so, my issue is basically what you said. It's a Gibson knock-off, made by Gibson. What's the point? Think of it like McDonald's for a sec. There was a dollar menu...now it's a 1, 2, 3 dollar menu. $5 foot-longs are friggin $13 now (let's see if...no, no one IS THAT dumb..)? Epiphone was a off brand. Now it got everything including the friggin headstock....it's a chibson made under Gibson branding for Gibson money. If I'm the only one with my head tilted, fine. I'll see ya down the road. I'll be the one holding the "hahaha told ya so" sign or eating the big plate of crow, either way.

[@waynegale1223]

@@Crackshot729 It's still made in China, that's the beef!

[@Crackshot729]

Good luck owning anything if you're unwilling to buy something Chinese made. As for the Epiphone, you're talking about $1299 versus $5000. If I can get something that is constructed similar to and plays as well as a Gibson for that kind of money, I'll take it. I own Gibson and I own Epiphone and unfortunately the difference is not that stark anymore.

[@leviathan_is_me]

Where it is made means little to nothing to me. I own guitars from Mexico, Indonesia, China, Japan, USA, etc.

[@NadiaPatrickZhukavaFuchs]

Uh, that looks like my very first guitar. Yamaha 80´s LP-Style. Don´t have it anymore but I think it was one of those "illegal" ones. Thanks for the memory trip...

[@ehsanhaq155]

Japanese??

[@Stykmon]

Bought the black one when they first came out in the spring. Just brought it for a setup. This is what my luthier (he's been at it for over 30 years) had to say about it - I worked on an Epiphone/Gibson most of the day. These Epiphone guitars have all Gibson pots, Gibson pickups, heavy wiring , Grover tuners, very well matched stop tail piece and great machined bridge and studs that actually fit tightly. Intonation was out and the neck was out but all in all a really nice guitar with good weight, not to heavy with that great D shaped neck. The 1/4 jack was heavy duty with good pots, all name brand parts well wired with heavy wire, much larger diameter than what I normally see. - He said he had to do more work recently on a brand new Gibson gold top than he had to do on this Epiphone. Love this guitar.

[@Whiskey04]

Trogly needs to come down his high and realize not everyone can afford a 5k Gibson custom. For $1300 new, that Epiphone makes kids' and even grown mens dreams come true

[@samuelllakaj5439]

Agreed. On the Epiphone. But I think even as a LP Custom fan, I'm slightly persuaded to get the SG. It IS a better deal (pickups) and maybe I'll like it more... I don't think so, but for the same exact price it's nice to hear the comparison by what we'd call a "veteran" who knows his guitars. That's my defense of Trogly.

[@Whiskey04]

@samuelllakaj5439 Trogly also does things to get views, and the headline on this video is one of them. He focused on the negative. Not everyone can afford Gibson USA

[@LG-ot9uv]

Nice guitar. I own a Black Beauty Japanese Epiphone LPC-80, made by the famous Fujigen factory. It has the open book headstock since back it was made in the 90’s. I bought it back in 2010 straight from Japan, from the renown retailer Ishibasji. It has a long neck tenon, the downsides compared to this guitar are the absence of ebony fretboard, real mother of Pearl inlays, and the pickups/ electronics, although the latter could be upgraded. Japanese craftsmanship is outstanding and people who are aware with the Japanese guitars, know what I’m talking about. It doesn’t need an additional advertisement: ) And I would buy one of these new Epiphones, if they released a Wine red Les Paul Custom.

[@ehsanhaq155]

FGN owner here. Those things can give Gibson a proper run for the money. I got Epiphone and FGN and Gibson LPs and from a purely value perspective, FGN wins easily.

[@kingofpentacles3213]

They have released a wine red Custom. It’s the Jerry Cantrell signature LP Custom.

[@FrehleyBurst9-1878]

Nice Steve Jones Riffs! That is from the Sex Pistols LP Nevermind The Bollocks, Here's The Sex Pistols and the song is Anarchy in The UK. Steve Jones has amazing riffs on many songs. When guitar players think of The 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom in Alpine White some say Randy Rhodes but it was Steve Jones way before Randy and his signature will cost you upwards of 15K.

[@jubei7259]

Yeah, massive Pistols fan here. I got my white Gibson LPC in the early 90's coz I was in a punk band & Jonesy had one (still got her too)

[@TM-ev2tc]

When you get new strings what strings do you use.

[@reverb508]

I think it's really cool that people can get "reasonably" affordable versions of high-end Gibsons that look the part. The headstock makes all the difference. That said, I do kinda wish Gibson revived the Orville brand to do this. Epiphone is a brand with its own history; I'd like to see them focus on making those guitars instead of budget versions of Gibson models.

[@PeteSlater]

I have a Gibson Les Paul Modern with 490R and 498T pups and a beautful custom finish which I just love. But I don't like to take it outside to play due to it being so pretty and expensive. So I picked up one of these Epis in white, due to it having the same pups as my Gibson and an ebony fretboard which I love, and I gotta say, it's a wonderful guitar. It feels great in hand and plays really well. Also sounds very close to my Gibson. And I won't be afraid to take it out to play. My Gibson cost me over £3000, the Epi cost £1200. I consider the Epi to be a bargain.

[@donthewatcher]

well said honest review, I got a 2024 Alpine LP custom 5/3/24 got a great deal from instrumental music thousand oaks Ca, a mom and pop music store. The custom does have a maple cap and a long neck tenon unlike the 2021 model .

[@erikkorhonen]

JJN needs to get a gibson headstock signature

[@thetoneknob4493]

ebony used to grow in several country's but guitar company gobbled it all up..their is now only one source for ebony. the owner of Taylor guitars bought the last remaining forest! and of those trees 1 in 20 of them will be black and suitable for fret boards. they used to scrap those 19 trees that went uniformly colored. i was more than disturbed wen i realized how much waste was created. the men cutting the trees only got payed for the black logs..well thankfully that has changed. they now use all of the logs they cut..that's why you might see white and black ebony on some guitars now.

[@Sameold87]

Hope they used the rest for other stuffs

[@jimmyjames2022]

Epiphone Les Paul Custom (490/498) is $1900CAD in Canada versus the Gibson Les Paul Modern Lite (490/498) is $2000CAD. Epi brings the bling. I'm not a fan of the Modern Lite series (colors are awesome but light satin wears too fast; no coil taps in a "modern") so maybe the Epi is more tempting.

[@donthewatcher]

epiphone les paul customs had coil taps 2018 and earlier you can find them for $400 just put some 490r/498t gibson pickups in it no coil taps 2020-2021-2024

[@MrJingles021]

I just got a purple Les Paul Modern. The volume knob sat really high. The frets are actually pretty level, and the action was set at 3/64s for the high e and nothing fretting out...but fret ends aren't good

[@mikestrowbridge]

The pickups are a down grade from the other models but as you pointed out, they are the correct pickups and you need the 498t for a modern custom so it is difficult to fault them for that issue. The fretboard is ebony while the other models are Indian Laurel so as woods go, this one is the closest, and to me that makes up for the difference in pickup cost vs the other 1,299 models. So the way I see it, I get a Custom for 1,299 with a finish that is more durable than the Gibson model and no fret nubs to go bad. Mine will be here on Sunday.

[@corycunningham4336]

490r and 498t might cost less but don’t let the price point fool you they are a great versatile pickup

[@TayTayKemp]

Imma take a hard pass on any epiphone especially one for $1300. I’ll just get a nicer guitar from another manufacturer or a used Gibson

[@florisvanlingen]

I also recently took a hard pass on Gibson. For €2400 you can get an Eastman, Maybach Lester or Tokai that is made with quality materials, feels and sounds just as good as the €3000 Gibson if not better and has a fit and finish twice as good.

[@gavinsomerville7690]

Epiphone is a Gibson. It’s a Gibson with a shitty nut, iffy fretwear, and good electronics with crappy wiring. Way more bang for your buck and they sound identical.

[@TayTayKemp]

@@gavinsomerville7690 when you know you know, when you don’t know you don’t know

[@gavinsomerville7690]

@@TayTayKemp I’ve been a professional luthier for years. I know the difference in quality and have repaired many vintage Gibsons from their golden era. After you’ve repaired a couple thousand guitars, you get pretty familiar with how it all works, and what matters and doesn’t.

[@TayTayKemp]

@@gavinsomerville7690 that’s nice, I gave my opinion, I clearly disagree with yours. I feel differently based on my many years of playing and working on guitars too

[@Lukeclayson]

I’ve always wanted a black LP custom, I have Gibson USA guitars but I just can’t justify spending between £5k and £7k on one depending on the model. This new Epiphone one is very tempting.

[@666thsense]

custom buckers are not vastly superior. i bought the SG and i hate the pickups. they're good for cleans, but with any kind of actual overdrive or gain they're squelchy sounding and tinny/scratchy. wish it came with a 498 495 and 490

[@jackwinder]

Yes, my experience as well. I had them in my R7 (2019) and the sound was weak and jangly, no bottom end at all. I put a set of Bareknuckel The Mule in it and it sounds so good right now, very balanced. In other Gibsons I have modified 500T pups with one A8 Alnico magnet in it, very good for overdrive. 498T are very good for (hard) rock as well.

[@eddierosales1680]

My problem with these is the choices! Between the 2 customs, 59 std, korina explorer, and 355, how can I possibly pick just one?

[@mr3klax]

I have one in Alpine White. And I like it. A lot. For me, everything about it is great. I am taking it to my luthier next week for a pro setup and fret dress. In the meantime, I took off the covers and checked out the parts. Mine has Gibson USA 490R and 498T pickups, CTS pots, Mallory caps and Switchcraft switch and output jack. I was pleased to find that the cavities were super clean and painted white. The wirings were neatly soldered and nicely tucked. I am very happy with this guitar. So impressed that I purchased the IGC 1959 ES-355 in Ebony within a couple of weeks later.

[@mutantgenius8735]

Trogly, I couldn't help but notice that Gibson's 490R/498T set is advertised as having 4-conductor wiring, which has a gray plastic coat. If Epiphone is advertising having that set in this LP Custom, why do I see silver braided wire (2-conductor) instead of a gray-colored wire (4-conductor)? Could those pickups be old stock?

[@clarkbabin9799]

I hear no difference between the Tribal or the Epi.

[@PrisonerD]

Not sure what speakers you're listening on, but there was a clear cut difference between them - the Gibson had a much clearer tone and more bite to the attack of the notes.

[@vincentnieto7792]

Small difference. The Epiphone still sounds great.

[@jimjim7008]

I've noticed huge difference, the Epiphone sounded tinny/thin while the Gibson sounded warmer fuller. Pretty sure the feel is different too due to the nitro finish on the Gibson.

[@plecogod]

@@PrisonerD There is definitely a difference, but I would have liked to have heard the Epiphone with a new set of strings. If you notice, Trogly almost never changes the strings on the guitars he throws on the bench. If you have ever bought a used guitar with old strings or a new guitar with cheap strings, you know how much of a difference a new set of your favorite strings will make. Not saying the Gibson pickups are not better, but they are not 4-5 times as good IMO.

[@Nattlig_PDX]

I would love to see the Inspired by 1955 Les Paul Customs come back to the Epiphone lineup, even though sadly those didn't come with a staple pickup. I ended up putting in one of Lollar's staple pickups in mine because I didn't want to do any additional routing as well as some other mods to get it closer to an 50's custom. Very cool model though.

[@mr3klax]

Thanks for this video. It has been a month actually since I got this guitar in Alpine White. And I am loving it. Since I don’t have a Gibson, I don’t have an idea what I am missing. I am really happy and contented with my 5 Epiphone Les Pauls. And since I already have an MIK 2012 Epiphone Les Paul Custom in Ebony, I decided to order the IBGC 1959 ES-355 in Ebony. This would be my first-ever semi-hollow body. Can’t wait.

[@jackwinder]

Thanks for the review! I ordered a black one last week with a 18% discount at Baxshop (Holland) and that price is okay for me (1125 Euro). I always wanted a Custom next to my USA Gibsons and R7 CS but for gigs I would not dare to bring a Gibson Custom and I don't want to spend 5330 Euro as well. It's a personal choice you make and what suits best in a certain situation.

[@eddierosales1680]

Wild to me how many guitar snobs are so against the IBGC collection. They’re not for you. Please wipe your tears with the cash you’re all saving by not buying these

[@JokersWild70]

My most expensive Les Paul was over $7000, and I've had or still have quite a few in the $$3500-$5800 range. That being said, I love my ruby red Epi Les Paul Alex Lifeson model

[@jimwguitar3002]

I picked up an older custom for $125 that needed one fret replaced. Did that. Put some blackouts in and it plays and sounds amazing.

[@jubei7259]

I actually dig the 490/498 pups but then I got most of my Gibsons in the 90's so they all came stock with them & I guess I just kinda got used to them over years of playing. You're getting a like though for playing 'Anarchy' lol. I love the Pistols.

[@andrewhouse3246]

You tried and tried, even brought out the Gibson....for 1200$ it's a winner.

[@IndyRockStar]

I do not know why Gibson and Epiphone always use a white(ish) switch tip on the Ebony LP Custom. Changing it to a black switch tip is the first thing I changed on my Gibson Custom LP Custom. The white switch tip looks so out of place with the rest of the guitar.

[@ChrisShortyAllen]

To match the binding. Black is not a colour.

[@the_hippykiller22]

I put a gold switch tip on mine, looks great

[@IndyRockStar]

@@ChrisShortyAllen It still look dumb.

[@IndyRockStar]

@@the_hippykiller22 I thought about putting a brass one on mine too. Good idea..

[@ChroniclesOfASadPunk]

I've never played a Gibson/Epi with Custombuckers, but I love the 498T/490R combo. Perhaps more than the Burstbuckers. It comes down to that hot bridge pickup. If I reach for a humbucker guitar, my Les Paul Studio is my choice.

[@sadlsore]

I love mine; I bought the Ebony finish. The pickups don’t have quite as much oomph as my 2017 Custom Lite, but sound great nonetheless- end the difference might be as simple as a pickup height adjustment. It plays itself and even unplugged, the tone and sustain are amazing. I don’t really care about a thin nitro finish, though I realize tastes differ.

[@FelipeLindstron]

I love the way you do the "sound check" playing randon riffs e common chords. Usually people would shred the hell out of the guitar and we wouldnt be able to recognize anything kkkkk

[@J_Braz_]

This guitar has the regular Epiphone bridge adjustment. The other new epis have the Gibson style adjustment. Im curious why that is.

[@Trog]

because it isn't a specific year reissue custom so they used the "Nashville Bridge" epiphone equivalent. I'm surprised they didn't do the ABR-1 style inserts too just to have uniformity in the collection

[@J_Braz_]

@@Trog wow! My first reply form the man, the myth, the legend,The Trog!!! I am not worthy! I am not worthy!!! Seriously though. Huge fan of your channel. Been watching for many years. ✌️

[@doctoribanez]

You can get a ltd ec1000 for te same and it will have a fancy top, name brand pickups and tonepros bridge and tail piece with locking tuners, stainless steel frets

[@robertcarey3383]

The ESP is a MUCH better guitar than the Epiphone. For 1500 you can get a Fgn 20 Les Paul out of the Ibanez factory in Japan (Where they make the Japan custom shop Ibanez) and it is a better guitar than the Gibson.

[@the_hippykiller22]

The EC1000 is gonna be a much better guitar. Sadly it doesn't look like a Gibson so it's a no go for a lot of people. Also the upper fret access is much better

[@scottclydesdale1674]

@@the_hippykiller22 Just ordered an ec-1000fr see-through-black. I like the look of this ESPs version of a single cut as much as Gibson's.

[@drippinglass]

Why do LTD guys always call their guitars ESP?

[@scottclydesdale1674]

@@drippinglass Because they come in a box with the large letters ESP ?

[@ploptimusgrime332]

From the moment they were announced I've been eyeing the 355. I'm definitely interested in seeing that review.

[@gwenmorrockceltique5777]

I've got mine 15 days ago..... And really love it!

[@dobiqwolf]

Oh, I thought you said you would not do this one, nice surprise still. Thanks for the video. I will wait for your review for the ES-355 a bit longer.

[@AREA_RC-51]

The ESP/Edwards are a good option as well... They make a beautiful LP Custom with similar price point but MIJ with Ducans and upgraded hardware and electronics.

[@r8420hp]

No japanese ESP is even close to 1300$. True custom shop ESP Eclipse is over 4K. E-II is over 2K. The equivalent model to that Epiphone is the LTS EC1000, but it's made in Korea, not Japan.

[@southernpanda33]

They need to give us the Lefty option. I’d buy that guitar if it was available in left handed.

[@robertdavidtingstrom118]

Flip it upside down like Hendrix! 🎸 I’m a lefty but I play right handed.

[@fuzzymuppet1990]

They dont make left-handed pianos, just saying

[@fuzzymuppet1990]

😊

[@TheGreatGadfly]

@@robertdavidtingstrom118like piano

[@southernpanda33]

@@fuzzymuppet1990 if they did, I wouldn’t play. I can’t play right handed. I tore the tendon in my left wrist and can’t form the shapes needed for chords with it. Hence why I play left handed.

[@airyboo6443]

I own an IBG ES 335, and a Fender Japan aerodyne. The Epiphone i paid $500, the Fender $700. The differnce in craftsmanship is IMMENSE. The Epiphone required $250 to get up to snuff, and it still isn't in the same ballpard as the Fender out of the box. The Fender feels as nice as american ultras. For me the name doesn't matter, but same as guitar pedals, i will not be wasting any money one anything coming out of China. America, Japan, UK, and Germany only for me.

[@williamtm1965]

wait until next year and buy these 40-50% cheaper

[@donthewatcher]

2020/2021 LP customs were epi best seller. i got $100 off a 2024 from a thousand oaks ca. mom and pop music shop. 5/3/24 with the maple cap and headstock made the diff for me

[@samuelllakaj5439]

I once found a Kalamazoo Epi LP on Ebay for over a grand ($). I can't get stuff from Sweetwater 'cause I don't know how it works for Europe but I'm surprised the white ones on ebay are so expensive still. And this one Japanese seller was selling the new Epi for sixteen hundred. Like, come on. I'm no expert but this doesn't seem like it'll get cheaper... or maybe I'm justifying my compulsive purchases XD.

[@Modeloman40]

Bought my MIJ epiphone custom in red with open book headstock. Feels like a actual custom shop.

[@DDE_ADDICT]

Black finish and OCD do not mix.

[@stephenzimmerman5517]

I've owned several Gibson Les Paul guitars. I purchased the Epiphone Les Paul Custom Koa Top. It's a really good guitar. I love it. CTS POTS, GRAPHTEC NUT, EBONY FRETBOARD, GROVER TUNERS. I did a blind test at Guitar Center, and I couldn't tell the difference between it and the Les Paul Standard. I added orange drop capacitors when I had the luthier Curt Cobain used and this guitar screams! I've been playing since 1963. Criticize all you want. My Epiphone Les Paul is a good guitar!

[@onlyguitars]

Epi 355 in White!!!!!

[@EricClapton1945]

My new Gibson doesnt even have pearl inlays

[@beatletrainfan129]

The even bigger let down I would say is that the Custom is THE ONLY ONE that still uses the epiphone style bridge. Every other guitar in this line up has the Gibson style thin post bridge.

[@jackwinder]

I agree but you can easily buy some adapters and put a (Gotoh) nashville style bridge on it if the guitar does really suits you.

[@trevor4533]

Agreed. Same with the 79' AJ.

[@tbdog99]

I really like it. If an Epiphone is good enough forJared James Nichols and John Lennon, I could probably find a way to make it work. Yes, it's overpriced for a Made in China product. But, maybe wait a few years and look at a used one, probably be in the $500-600 range, then...DEAL!

[@jordanpratt3821]

The epis that Lennon played were made here. (Here being America)

[@minecraftmonsterjam9791]

I played a silver burst one not that long ago looks and feels great but the knobs are so much higher off the body than I would like

[@andrewhouse3246]

5 minute easy fix, loosen the nut ,push in and re tighten, just did both of mine cuz I thought the same..now much better..

[@Bumerang37]

Hi. Does the epiphone les paul custom 2023 or previous "inspired by Gibson" les paul custom has solid maple top ?

[@Mike_HuntizWet]

Yep

[@I-Libertine]

They call it ebony, but Tbh, I wouldn't care if it were richlite: those boards feel infinitely better than the Indian laurel, and, frankly, look great. I wish that richlite were the go-to option.

[@martyshwaartz971]

Richlite’s the best. Feels and looks like ebony but way lower maintenance.

[@grimoire7851]

richlite no sound

[@jasonsapp792]

The prices of the Orville and Orville by Gibson are on par or more than this Epiphone and you don't get the Gibson electronics ... I say a great deal ! Can't wait to find one used

[@badtonestudio]

I agree that better pickups would have off set value a bit and perhaps maybe made this one a bit more inspiring to play. Even in standard production Gibson guitars that have the 490/498 set stock I factor in a pickup swap as I know I’ve never been able to bond with them. If I see one of these in the wild I will give it a spin. However the finish feel Trog talks about always puts me off too

[@kenmh7357]

Was looking for a guitar with a figured top. Looking at Epiphone Les Paul and PRS SE. Saw a video that had me turn my stomach for E LP, so I got and SE that both beautiful and more versatile. Can switch from Les Paul and Strat until my budget gets better will enjoy PRS for lessons.

[@macgibbon]

'54 style Custom with the alnico and p90. I'm buying that.

[@jeremiahseal7778]

I thought the same thing. More Gibson upgrades and high end pickups on the 59 and same price for the custom - but I don’t realize the 355 came with CustomBuckers as well. Yeah the LPC is definitely less of a bargain!!

[@ibisrox1]

I grabbed the AdamJonez silverburst and its sweet! I have the 2 Rydon Art the Standard and the V2 ML aged signed so I can compare it well sounds identical all across the board except the standard has more growl and sustain of the bunch I also have an 07 custom silverburst so yes the price is worth it

[@fattony4961]

If you contact one of the large online chains like GC or SW, you can usually get 10% off the MSRP, which brings the price down to what appears to be a more realistic number. So in this case, the price would be brought down to $1170 Instead of $1300 or in the instance of AJ79 MSRP was $1500. I paid $1349 however with GC make sure you specify you want a guitar that is still sealed in the box from the warehouse otherwise you might get a floor model.

[@wiseguy9202]

It's crazy to me that these cost twice as much as the Ibanez DT520 that had way more high end appointments made in the same factory a few years prior. They came stock with Dimarzio pickups to. Anywho, I'd buy this model just because it doesn't have that nasty Indian laurel.

[@Greatdaim]

Actually these are made in epiphones own factory gibson set up I believe.

[@stuartcleary8621]

There gonna sell a ton eh those , cause that headstock is what every one wants

[@Scorchedorb50]

The body is closer to a Gibson too! Look at the knobs, the neck volume is parallel to the tailpiece and a lot of other little details have changed too!

[@davemeshamsr6000]

Can u do an episode with a hollow body or semi hollow body? I realize that’s not quite ur forte but I’m interested in seeing some like L-5 type or es-175 or es-150 style stuff that doesn’t have a really pointy carve cutaway…😳 I understand this is a rather specific question but…how many Les Paul style guitars can one own? After all isn’t variety the spice of life?

[@enlightened-ze3zs]

That thing is gorgeous. I hope it's still available after I save up. I'm gonna get a white one. Throw in some emgs

[@SocksworthRiffs]

yeah they sound identical to me, Epiphone is seriously doing work on this series. I want to see more from them in this vein, this could be a HUGE hit (assuming people get over the USA is always better brainwashing)

[@jackwinder]

I just listened to Austins sound samples on my Beyer Dynamic DT770 headphones and Adam studio monitor speakers. The distortion parts are pretty much the same, the clean parts a bit in favor of the Gibson, more open and natural. Good results from Epi for the sound, although prices could be somewhat lower value wise.

[@SocksworthRiffs]

@@jackwinder it's within margin of error for me. Could be any number of things that affected the clean tone when it's not scientific or anything

[@nealhathaway2004]

I like the brightness of the neck pickup.

[@myoptik3x103]

I think $1,200 is about how much a friend of mine paid for an actual Les Paul Custom in 1978. It was black with gold hardware, just like this one, except it came with one of the chainsaw cases.

[@mrSK83RB0Y94]

(not so) fun fact, $1200 in 1978 is actually $5,748.44 in 2024 dollars, so sounds about right.

[@TheSkydogsguitar]

My 79 Silverburst Custom cost $800.00 USD in December of 1979.

[@reverb508]

Very misleading if you don't adjust for inflation. That was expensive as hell back in 78.

[@csharp57]

In 1978 a McDonald’s Big Mac was 95 cents. That burger is $8.17 today.

[@steveparish9210]

1978 was a long time ago!

[@Kahuna54]

I would love the tribal custom!

[@svenweise3169]

Whats the better guitar? This one or the japanese Elite/elitist les Paul from the early 2000?

[@trevor4533]

Elitist is the better built guitar, but the Epiphone has better electronics.

[@svenweise3169]

@@trevor4533 I've got 2 elitist/ elite and love them

[@luciasabrinadimaria614]

I purchased the Blackback 7 months ago. Love it. Very nice.

[@jessehurtado2056]

I purchased one for 1150.00, the I really love the 490/498 Pickups, that with the Ebony fret board, mahogany neck, maple top and real nice case, I cannot justify spending 5500.00 plus for the US made custom.

[@jeremymiller6933]

The math adds up. If you buy a $799 regular Epi LP Custom, buy a case and the upgrades, this is actually a few dollars cheaper. It just depends on how bad you want this particular guitar. I wouldn't spend $1300 on an Epiphone, but in a few years used models of these guitars will be all over the place and much less expensive.

[@chargert9]

I ordered both a Black and a White one, the White one showed up 1st they're advertised as having a slim taper neck profile the white one that I received definitely was a 50's rounded baseball bat profile Big disappointment for my preference my Gibson standards have a 60's slim taper that in used to playing. The guitar played and sounded Great after I set it up, but the fretboard was discolored and it was really an eyesore everone that showed the guitar too commented on it. So I returned it for a replacement. I'm still waiting 2 months later. 😕 I never opened the control cavity to check but does anyone know if these are 4 conductor wire 490r/498t pickups?

[@edwinstovall3334]

Austin, ol' buddy, I know you were doing no such thing, but it almost sounded like you were hating on that guitar. My opinion, though, is that it has the quintessential sound of a Les Paul. Granted, I don't and can't know how it plays ....

[@stonephilips9361]

Nice! Seems like a great value.

[@TheNobbynoonar]

Hi, Mr Trogly. I’m a newbie when it comes to guitar pickups. My knowledge in this area is very limited. What is the difference between pickups such as the ones in the guitar you’re reviewing, and, for example, custom buckers? Is the difference that great between them? Also, have you or anyone else got more information on this particular subject? These are genuine questions, as I’m wondering if it’s worth splashing out on a set of pickups for my 1997 Les Paul standard and I don’t want to dent my wallet just to end up disappointed. BTW, great site. I’ve learned some really valuable information-thank you.

[@jameshughes6049]

Evening Troglodytes!!! They sound very similar being that they have the same pickups.

[@andrewhouse3246]

Sounded identical to me...of course that almost kills him...strange really..

[@ronhoffman7941]

Which Epiphone has the custom buckers in it ???

[@mykuntstynx9463]

The SG has 3 The middle and bridge are wired together out of phase and it sounds amazing. The 335 does too. And I'm pretty sure the Les Paul standard too.

[@redheart6995]

@Trog you can dull it down at taste! Its pretty easy! For me its the feel of this exact guitar model that felt short. Lookwise its crazy good. I used virtuoso polish and cleaner on this and the weird plastiquy feeling went away. Now it looks and feel great!

[@PurposefulPorpoise]

If they do the p90 (Staple Neck) version of this, im selling my Gibsons, full stop. That headstock + Epiphone is just amazing

[@rodturner6759]

This is funny because the headstock has kept me from buying an Epiphone lp, this is nice.

[@A-Wall]

What is the headstock angle of these new Inspired by Gibson Epiphones?

[@Magnanimus]

14° as far as I know (and Gibson guitars 17°).

[@ernestgarduno1492]

These new Epis look amazing and I love the headstocks. However, they are asking a large premium for shoddy work, at least with Mexican made fenders and PRS SEs you get great build quality and affordability. Not 100% sold in these yet. Need a year of tweaking of quality before I will consider it.

[@Cherry_Sunburst]

EXCELLENT...Thank you!